Japan as Read and Dreamt About by Emilie Papatheodorou
The journalist and author, who recently released her first novel, ‘The American Dawn’, harbours an informed passion for the country.
Despite having never been there, Emilie Papatheodorou knows Japan well. Having studied the language for two years when she was at college, the journalist for the Mode Portrait format on Clique now continues to learn about the country’s culture through reading and cinema.
Sensitivity towards Japanese cinema
Her Japanese pantheon includes filmmaker Hirokazu Kore-eda, who she was lucky enough to meet, and his film Shoplifters, which was awarded the Palme d’or at Cannes in 2018. There is also Narayama by Shohei Imamura, another recipient of the Palme d’or (in 1983), the subject of which, namely the treatment of elders by society, echoes the issues examined by the journalist.
In August 2021, with the publication of her first novel L’aube américaine (‘The American Dawn’), Emilie Papatheodorou embarked on her career as an author. In the novel, she addresses the relationship between a young woman and her grandmother, whose memories are beginning to slip away. The narrative unfolds in New York and recounts the journeys of immigrant families, their hopes and moments of despair, all in a spirited style.
L’aube américaine (‘The American Dawn’) (2021), a novel by Emilie Papatheodorou, is published by Albin Michel (not currently available in English).
View this post on Instagram
TRENDING
-
The Tattoos that Marked the Criminals of the Edo Period
Traditional tattoos were strong signifiers; murderers had head tattoos, while theft might result in an arm tattoo.
-
The Artistry of Bondage by Hajime Kinoko
The artist transcends the practice of ‘shibari’ in performances where threads, not bodies, take center stage.
-
JITENSHA, the Bike Blending Japanese Minimalism and French Design
The brand assembles its models by hand in Paris, drawing inspiration from the sleek, light bikes seen in the streets of Japan.
-
Recipe for English Breakfast with ‘Udon’ by TheSocialFood
The indulgence of crispy bacon is paired with the chewiness of Japanese 'udon' noodles in this comforting recipe.
-
Alpine Walks and Hot Springs in Hachimantai
With lush virgin forests, snowy peaks and 'onsen', the Hachimantai region offers the perfect escape for nature enthusiasts.
